Dr. David ëPeteí Frelinger, who devoted time to free clinics in U.S. and Mexico, dies at 80

Longtime Playa del Rey resident Dr. David ìPeteî Frelinger died Friday, April 17th, at his home. He was 80.

Frelinger became a physician in 1960 and spent his lifetime serving others, from his free clinic in Tijuana, Mexico to his work with the Native Americans on various reservations. Most recently, he served as the medical director of the Knights of Malta Free Clinic in Los Angeles.

Frelinger was a devout Catholic, receiving accolades from the Pope and Cardinal, and was an active member of the Knights of Malta, his family said.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty, his five children and 15 grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at St. Anastasia Catholic Church, 7390 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester, with rosary scheduled at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23rd, and a funeral mass scheduled at 10 a.m. Friday, April 24th.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Knights of Malta Free Clinic in Los Angeles, Pro Life Organizations, or the Alzheimerís Association.